Investigating Europa's Habitability with the Europa Clipper.

The habitability of Europa is a property within a system, which is driven by a multitude of physical and chemical processes and is defined by many interdependent parameters, so that its full characterization requires collaborative investigation. To explore Europa as an integrated system to yield a complete picture of its habitability, the Europa Clipper mission has three primary science objectives: (1) characterize the ice shell and ocean including their heterogeneity, properties, and the nature of surface-ice-ocean exchange; (2) characterize Europa's composition including any non-ice materials on the surface and in the atmosphere, and any carbon-containing compounds; and (3) characterize Europa's geology including surface features and localities of high science interest. The mission will also address several cross-cutting science topics including the search for any current or recent activity in the form of thermal anomalies and plumes, performing geodetic and radiation measurements, and assessing high-resolution, co-located observations at select sites to provide reconnaissance for a potential future landed mission. Synthesizing the mission's science measurements, as well as incorporating remote observations by Earth-based observatories, the James Webb Space Telescope, and other space-based resources, to constrain Europa's habitability, is a complex task and is guided by the mission's Habitability Assessment Board (HAB).

The utility of the TRUE test in a private practice setting.

BACKGROUND: Studies suggest that the Thin-Layer Rapid-Use Epicutaneous Test (TRUE Test) may be inadequate to completely diagnose a significant number of patients with allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). OBJECTIVE: To study the usefulness of the TRUE Test as a triage tool in a private practice setting. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of patients who were patch-tested with the TRUE Test between July 1, 2000, and June 30, 2004, in four private dermatology practices was conducted. RESULTS: Of the 183 patients evaluated, 50.8% had at least one positive reaction, 31.7% had a diagnosis of ACD, and 24.0% were suspected to have ACD from other allergens. Of the patients with positive reactions, 62.4% were determined to have reactions that were of present relevance. CONCLUSIONS: The TRUE Test allows patients with dermatitis to be triaged systematically in a private practice setting. It is important to supplement patch testing with the patients' personal products, especially in cases of facial or periorbital dermatitis, and to be aware of potential false negatives, particularly with fragrance and rubber additives.

Quantifying serum antibody in bird fanciers' hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

BACKGROUND: Detecting serum antibody against inhaled antigens is an important diagnostic adjunct for hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP). We sought to validate a quantitative fluorimetric assay testing serum from bird fanciers. METHODS: Antibody activity was assessed in bird fanciers and control subjects using various avian antigens and serological methods, and the titer was compared with symptoms of HP. RESULTS: IgG antibody against pigeon serum antigens, quantified by fluorimetry, provided a good discriminator of disease. Levels below 10 mg/L were insignificant, and increasing titers were associated with disease. The assay was unaffected by total IgG, autoantibodies and antibody to dietary hen's egg antigens. Antigens from pigeon serum seem sufficient to recognize immune sensitivity to most common pet avian species. Decreasing antibody titers confirmed antigen avoidance. CONCLUSION: Increasing antibody titer reflected the likelihood of HP, and decreasing titers confirmed antigen avoidance. Quantifying antibody was rapid and the increased sensitivity will improve the rate of false-negative reporting and obviate the need for invasive diagnostic procedures. Automated fluorimetry provides a method for the international standardization of HP serology thereby improving quality control and improving its suitability as a diagnostic adjunct.